Three dogs or three dogs, which is correct? - briefly
The phrase "three dogs" is grammatically correct in English when referring to multiple dogs. Adding "dogs" after "three dogs" is redundant and incorrect.
Three dogs or three dogs, which is correct? - in detail
The phrase "three dogs" can be used correctly in two different contexts, each serving its own purpose and maintaining grammatical accuracy. To fully understand the distinction between these uses, it is essential to recognize the role of articles in the English language.
In the first instance, when we say "three dogs," the absence of an article before the noun "dogs" implies a general or unspecified reference. This phrase could be used in a conversation where one is discussing dogs in general terms, without referring to any particular group. For example: "I have always loved animals. Three dogs are my favorite pets." Here, the speaker is not talking about specific dogs but rather making a statement about dogs as a whole.
On the other hand, when we use the phrase "the three dogs," the definite article "the" is employed to indicate that the speaker is referring to a specific group of dogs already known or understood by the listener. This could be in a scenario where the speaker and listener have previously discussed these particular dogs, or the context makes it clear which dogs are being talked about. For example: "The three dogs we saw earlier were playing in the park." In this sentence, the use of "the" specifies that the conversation is about the same three dogs mentioned before.
In summary, both "three dogs" and "the three dogs" can be correct depending on whether a general or specific reference is intended. The absence of an article (as in "three dogs") suggests a broader, unspecified meaning, while the use of the definite article ("the three dogs") narrows down the reference to particular dogs known to both parties involved in the conversation.